CGHS- Important news for central government employees. The Modi government has taken a significant decision under the Central Health Service Scheme (CGHS) and Central Service Medical Attendance Rules (CS MA 1944 Rules). Under this, transgender children and siblings of employees and pensioners will now be able to avail government medical facilities at any age. This decision is in accordance with the Transgender Rights Act 2019. This means that age will no longer be a barrier for these dependents and they will be entitled to full medical facilities.
What is the new change?
According to the memorandum, transgender children or siblings will be able to avail themselves of government medical facilities only if they are completely financially dependent on their parents or guardians. The income limits and rules set out in the 2016 Health Ministry notification will apply. To avail of the benefits, they must have a certificate issued by the District Magistrate, which will be valid under the Transgender Rights Act of 2019. This change will now give transgender children equal access to government medical benefits.
The Central Government has already made several significant changes to the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). The Ministry of Health launched a new HMIS portal and mobile app, through which beneficiaries can now book appointments, download e-cards, and avail medical services from the comfort of their homes. Cashless treatment will be available in more hospitals in 2025.
Several major private hospitals and diagnostic centers have been added to the CGHS panel, increasing access to smaller towns and Tier-2 cities. An online referral system has also been implemented, simplifying the process of obtaining referrals from doctors. Real-time monitoring of drug stocks was introduced in 2025.